It is hoped that this little book may prove useful, not only in connection with puzzles for home amusement, but that by inducing people to consider the various difficulties met with in business and trade some at least may be led to greater success in dealing with the practical puzzles and problems of everyday life.

It is the special desire of the author to produce a “sugar-coated mathematical pill,” as he feels convinced that many can more easily grasp the truth when it is put before them in a light manner than when brought forward in the usual orthodox fashion.

No pains have been spared to make the Puzzle King the best of its kind yet produced, and the author here wishes to thank his many friends who have so kindly assisted him. It would be well-nigh impossible to individualize; but especial thanks are due to Thos. Finney, Esq., M.L.A. (Brisbane), for the interest he has manifested throughout, and the kindly help he has so often rendered the author.

It might afford our readers some pleasure to know that this work is entirely Australian. The printers, artist, and author are all colonial-born, and the production of the former two, at any rate, will compare favourably with that of any others.

The engravings throughout have been in the hands of Mr. Murray Fraser and staff, whose experience in this special art has tended to make the book more attractive than it otherwise would have been.

The author is not above receiving any suggestions or contributions in the way of peculiar puzzles or commercial comicalities, which might enhance the value of the book. Intending contributors are invited to communicate to the address given below, and can rest assured that they will be remunerated according to the merits of their communications.

THE AUTHOR.

44, Pitt Street, Sydney.

Refer to Appendix for Answers to numbered Problems.